N.Sembilan ‘Tourism Industry's Kick-Off Conference 2013' On Dec 11.

Date: 10 December 2012

N.Sembilan ‘Tourism Industry's Kick-Off Conference 2013' On Dec 11.

SEREMBAN, Dec 9 (Bernama) -- Negeri Sembilan (NS) Tourism Malaysia and Negeri Sembilan Tourism Board are holding a one-day programme 'Negeri Sembilan Tourism Industry's Kick-Off Conference 2013' at the Klana Resort here on Tuesday, Dec 11.

NS Tourism Malaysia director Zaidi Kassim said the programme aimed to gather all tourism operators to discuss ideas for strengthening the sector in the state.

"Among the objectives of the conference are to launch the 2013 NS tourism events calendar while simultaneously gather the tour operators to collaborate with the government on strengthening the sector in the state. The NS state government's 2013 plans for promoting tourism in the state to enhance income will also be presented," he told Bernama, here today.

He said this effort was in line with the Federal government's national 2020 Tourism Transformation Plan and to create a platform for tour operators and government agencies to form smart partnerships and contribute towards the industry's growth.

Copyright @ BERNAMA

Airlines to welcome 3.6 billion passengers in 2016: IATA.

Date: 6 December 2012

Airlines to welcome 3.6 billion passengers in 2016: IATA.

GENEVA, Switzerland - The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released an industry traffic forecast showing that airlines expect to welcome some 3.6 billion passengers in 2016. That’s about 800 million more than the 2.8 billion passengers carried by airlines in 2011.

These figures are revealed in the IATA Airline Industry Forecast 2012-2016. This industry consensus outlook for system-wide passenger growth sees passenger numbers expanding by an average of 5.3% per annum between 2012 and 2016. The 28.5% increase in passenger numbers over the forecast period will see almost 500 million new passengers traveling on domestic routes and 331 million new passengers on international services.

International freight volumes will grow at 3% per annum to total 34.5 million tonnes in 2016. That is 4.8 million more tonnes of air cargo than the 29.6 million tonnes carried in 2011.

The emerging economies of Asia-Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East will see the strongest passenger growth. This will be led by routes within or connected to China, which are expected to account for 193 million of the 831 million new passengers over the forecast period (159 million on domestic routes and 34 million traveling internationally). Passenger growth within the Asia-Pacific region (domestic and international) is expected to add around 380 million passengers over the forecast period.

Through 2016, the United States will continue to be the largest single market for domestic passengers (710.2 million). In the same year, passengers on international routes connected to the United States will total 223 million, making it the largest single market for international travel as well. Reflecting the maturity of the United States market, growth rates (2.6% for domestic and 4.3% for international) will be well below the international average (5.3 % for international travel and 5.2% for domestic traffic).

“Despite the current economic uncertainty, expected demand for connectivity remains strong. That’s good news for the global economy. Growing air transport links generate jobs and underpin economic growth in all economies. But exploiting these will require governments to recognize aviation’s value with policies that do not stifle innovation, tax regimes that do not punish success and investments to enable infrastructure to keep up with growth,” said Tony Tyler, IATA’s Director General and CEO. Globally, aviation supports some 57 million jobs and $2.2 trillion in economic activity.

Copyright @ eTN Global Travel Industry News © 2001-2012 eTurboNews, Inc.

The National Monument - TUGU NEGARA.

Date: 8 December 2012

The National Monument - TUGU NEGARA.

The National Monument is a sculpture that commemorates those who died in Malaysia's struggle for freedom, principally against the Japanese occupation during World War II and the Malayan Emergency, which lasted from 1948 until 1960.

The National Monument is located at a walking distance from the famous Lake Gardens Kuala Lumpur. The National Monument is a sculpture which was built in remembrance of the brave soldiers who died fighting for the independence of our country. This historic sculpture has also marked its place in the book of records for being the tallest freestanding group of bronze sculptures.

You will see 7 bronze figures of soldiers, each of which symbolizes leadership, suffering, unity, vigilance, strength, courage and sacrifice. 5 of the figures represents the victorious allied forces while the other 2 figures that lie on the ground represents that of the defeated communist forces.

The National Monument is a 48,562 sq meter space with 5 major components. The components are the monument, the pavilion, the surrounding gardens, the fountains and the war memorial. The National Monument was designed by an American architect named Felix de Weldon who also designed the famous Iwo Jima Memorial. Every year on 31st of July, the Yang Di-Pertuan Agong, the Prime Minister as well as the heads of military and police pay their respects to the heroes who have fought so hard to free our country from the clenches of foreign occupation.

This is another site that tourist should not missed about Malaysia. There are many tours available by local travel agency that brings you to this spot. If you are in Kuala Lumpur, make sure you have time for visiting the National Monument or known as 'Tugu Negara' by Malaysian.

Photos:

Photo 1: Many tourists taking photos at the National Monument.

Photo 2: The National Monument.

Photo 3: Many tourists at the National Monument.

Photo 4: A view of National Monument.

Photo 5: National Monument.

Photo 6: Read the story of the National Monument.

Photo 7: Visiting Hours to the National Monument.

Galeria Sri Perdana

Date: 8 December 2012

Galeria Sri Perdana.

Galeria Sri Perdana features the previous residency of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the former Prime Minister of Malaysia. It is interesting to know the actual residency of Tun Dr Mahathir and Tun Dr Siti Hasmah with family since 1983 until they moved to Putrajaya in 1999. Most of the important spaces are maintained, while others are made into exhibition space, the building structure and interior decorations are maintained as the original.

Come and see yourself at Galeria Sri Perdana. There’s many more to be view at the Galeria including Tun Dr. Mahathir collection of books, souvenirs, cars and etc.

In addition, you can get more information at this website address: http://www.arkib.gov.my/en/galeria-sri-perdana if you need to find more knowledge with regards to National Archives of Malaysia.  

It is one venue that not to be missed by tourists. It will be an enjoyable place to visit and ask your travel guide more information with regards to the contribution of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the fourth Prime Minister of Malaysia - a man with many talents.


Source: Galeria Sri Perdana


Photos:

Photo 1: Launching of Galeria Sri Perdana.

Photo 2: Cartoon frame about the Sidek's brother.

Photo 3: Another Cartoon frame, it's funny.. read it.  .

Photo 4: Guest room.

Photo 5: Banquet setting for meals. 

Photo 6: A haircut corner.

Photo 7: About the Carpentry Room.

Photo 8: Carpentry Room.

'Pameran Raja Kita' (Our King Exhibition).

Date: 8 December 2012

'Pameran Raja Kita' (Our King Exhibition).

The exhibition is held as a way to introduce and foster closer relationships between His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Almu'tsimu Billahi Muhibbuddin Tuanku Alhaj Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah ibni Almarhum Sultan Badlishah and her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tuanku Haminah with their subjects. The system of Parliamentary Democracy  and the concept of a Constitutional Monarchy are also on show. It is hoped that this exhibition will benefit and enlighten all on the importance of preserving this concept for future generations as a symbol of the nation's sovereignty, an umbrella that protects and shelters everyone of us in this country (Malaysia).

Among the objectives of the exhibitions are;

1. To clarify the role and position of the institution of Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the concept of Constitutional Monarchy in the Parliamentary Democracy system of government as practiced in this country.

2. To introduce the Yang di-Pertuan Agong XIV and Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong to the people in conjunction with His Majesty's installation on December 13, 2011.

3. To strengthen the spirit of patriotism and sense of undivided loyalty to the country and government of His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

4. To reflect the importance of the Institution of Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the concept of Constitutional Monarchy as a pillar for sovereignty, peace, prosperity, harmony and country's development.

5. To defend the glory and sovereignty of the Institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as practiced in this country.   

In addition, while it is very important to Malaysians to know more about our King and Queen as well as the Constitutional Monarchy system, it is also very interesting for any foreigner to learn and acknowledge the nation's sovereignty. 

So, if you are in Kuala Lumpur for a visit, take about one or two hours of your precious time to visit the exhibition located at the previous Palace and it is also recommended for all international workers and their families to take time and visit this informative information with regards to Malaysia and to learn more about the country.  

It is FREE Admission entry for all but you have to pay a small fee for Mobile Phone (RM3.00), Camera (RM5.00) and Video Camera (RM10.00), kindly ask at the reception counter located at the gate of the Palace. The exhibition is until end of this year, 31st December 2012.

For further information, you can visit the official website at http://www.jmm.gov.my for further information on the above exhibition as well as many more related exhibitions and news by Department of Museums Malaysia, under the Ministry of Information, Communication and Culture, Malaysia. 


Source: Department of Museums Malaysia.



Photos:
Below are some photos that you can refer to with regards to the above exhibition. 

Photo 1: The Bunting of 'Pameran Raja Kita'.  

Photo 2: The previous National Palace, the venue of the exhibition.

Photo 3: Remember to arrange your shoe at the space provided. 

Photo 4: Take notes on the items.

Photo 5: An introduction

Photo 6: Exhibits

Photo 7: National Anthem.

Photo 8: Artifact

Photo 9: MALAYSIA

Photo 10: The Seven Wills of the Malay Rulers.

Photo 11: Artifacts.

Photo 12: Royal Traditional Music Instruments.

Photo 13: View of The Exhibition.

Malaysia Airlines Set To Join Oneworld Alliance Feb 1, 2013.

Date: 6 December 2012

Malaysia Airlines Set To Join Oneworld Alliance Feb 1, 2013.

KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 6 (Bernama) -- Award winning Malaysia Airlines is set to become the 12th member of the award winning Oneworld Alliance from Feb 1, 2013.

In a statement today, Malaysia Airlines said it won the 'World's Best Cabin Crew' award this year, making it the seventh time in 11 years and also the 'Best Airline Signature Dish' from Skytrax, the United Kingdom based world's leading airline and airport review organisation. It said Skytrax awarded Malaysia Airlines the "5-Star Airline" status this year, an award that was made possible through its consistent 40 years of exclusive Malaysian hospitality delivery to its customers.

Meanwhile, speaking on this development after attending the Oneworld Governing Board Meeting in London today, MAS Group Chief Executive Officer, Ahmad Jauhari Yahya, said the airline was on the last lap of the path towards becoming a full-fledged member of a fast growing award-winning alliance. He said almost all system interface and fares standardisation requirements for the membership had been completed.

Ahmad Jauhari also said it was an exciting time for both MAS and Oneworld, which already has attracted Sri Lankan Airlines and Qatar Airways both of which will be joining the leading global airlines’ alliance after MAS. "With our business plan showing positive results since its launch last December, this is an opportune time for our induction into this global alliance," he said, adding that the membership will strengthen the airline's competitive position considerably.

It would enable MAS customers to enjoy a truly global network together with its partners who include some of the best and biggest airlines in the world. MAS would be able to also tap into all the financial benefits that come from being part of a global alliance, through additional passenger feed and cost reduction opportunities.

"We are indeed very pleased and proud to join what is clearly the world's top quality airline grouping on Feb 1. Malaysia Airlines will start offering Oneworld's full range of services and benefits from Feb 1, 2013 and will be the second carrier in the alliance operating the A380 after Qantas, its Oneworld entry sponsor," the statement said.

The Malaysian airline membership will also expand Oneworld's global coverage to some 840 destinations in 156 countries, served by some 9,000 departures a day operated by a combined fleet of some 2,500 aircraft, carrying nearly 340 million passengers a year, with annual revenues of US$110 billion.

Copyright @ BERNAMA

Malaysian tourism to India to spike with new visa ruling.

Date: 6 December 2012

Malaysian tourism to India to spike with new visa ruling.

PETALING JAYA: Indian tourist visa applications are expected to increase by 20% next year following the lifting of a rule imposing a two-month gap between visits on Malaysian tourists. Malaysian Indian Tour and Travel president K. Thangavelu said the number of tourist visas issued had risen by about 10% each year since 2009, despite the restriction.

“So far this year, about 160,000 Indian tourist visas have been issued, which accounted for 90% of the total Indian visas issued. With the regulations lifted, we expect an increase of between 15% and 20% of tourist visa applications.”

The restriction, which was relaxed three days ago, had been enforced in November 2009 following the Mumbai terrorist attacks.

India’s Deputy High Commissioner to Malaysia Aseem R. Mahajan had said other tourist visa application procedures would remain. He added that travel to India for business purposes, which had faced no restriction on a gap between two visits, would also remain.

“Even with the restriction, many still chose to travel as cheap flight tickets and accommodation made international tourism more accessible,” he said.

MIC secretary-general Datuk S. Murugesan called the move timely, saying it would greatly benefit locals who had relatives in India. “During the restriction, some who had gone to India on holiday could not go back for urgent family matters which came up within 60 days,” he added.

Copyright © 1995-2012 Star Publications (M) Bhd.

F&B sector to contribute RM30 bil in 2020: Ng.

Date: 5 December 2012

F&B sector to contribute RM30 bil in 2020: Ng.

MELAKA: The Tourism Ministry targets RM30 billion from the total income of RM168 billion from the tourism sector to be contributed by the food and beverage sector by 2020. Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said the target was achievable because tourists to the country spent a large amount on food and beverage.

She said RM10 billion of the income of RM58.3 billion from the tourism sector last year was from the food and beverage sector.  "We are confident of achieving this target as our country has numerous food products which can be enjoyed by tourists," she told reporters after opening the state level '1Malaysia Fabulous Food 2012' here.

Also present was Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam. She said in the effort to reach the target, traders were urged to enhance cleanliness in the handling of food and drinks, and their quality. She said the move must be stressed upon because the food and beverage industry was a very important tourism product to boost the national economy.

Meanwhile, Ng said '1Malaysia Fabulous Food' was an ongoing initiative of the ministry to introduce various food products in the country and help boost income from tourism.  She said three menus were selected as food icons in the programme each year where yong tau foo, rojak and mi rebus were picked to promote national tourism this year.

She said the ministry lauded the selection of different menus from traders and the people to be promoted among tourists in the country. – Bernama

Copyright © 2012 Sun Media Corporation Sdn. Bhd.

New Motorsports City fuels Johor's tourism ambitions.

Date: 5 December 2012

New Motorsports City fuels Johor's tourism ambitions.

JOHOR’S Iskandar region will see a RM3.5 billion (US$1.2 billion) motorsports hub emerge by 2016, according to local newspapers.

The Business Times, The Straits Times and Today reported that Singaporean billionaire Peter Lim has partnered with Malaysia’s UEM Land on a 110 hectare plot near the Tuas Second Link that connects the two countries.

FasTrack Autosports (majority-owned by Lim) owns 70 per cent of the joint venture while UEM Land owns 30 per cent. The latter is a subsidiary of state-owned investment company Khazanah Nasional. The hub is expected to be fully completed in 10 to 15 years, with the first phase expected to be ready by 2016.

Besides having a 4.5km double-loop circuit, a 1.2km go-kart track and an off-road circuit, the project will also host various kinds of car and motorcycle races. It will also house car showrooms, a car museum, a driving school, a bonded warehouse where drivers can store tax-free cars and a research and development centre. Additionally, there will also be a clubhouse, weekend homes, F&B and entertainment outlets. 

According to The Business Times, the Singapore Sports Council has not ruled out carrying on with its plans to build a similar race circuit in Changi.

Copyright TTG Asia Media Pte Ltd © 2012

Johor now a tourist magnet.

Date: 4 December 2012

Johor now a tourist magnet.

JOHOR BARU: Johor's latest attractions at Nusajaya have helped triple the number of tourists to the state. “During the current school holidays, we have seen 150 to 250 busloads of tourists coming into the state, compared to about 60 to 70 buses during the same period last year,” Malaysian Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong said.

He said this was due to the lure of Legoland Malaysia and the Puteri Harbour Indoor Theme Park, which houses the Sanrio Hello Kitty Town and beloved children's characters such as Barney, Thomas and Friends and Pingu. “The theme parks at Nusajaya cater to children of all ages. Parents can also join the fun. It is no wonder that these places have become the preferred destinations for school holidays,” said Leong, adding that the retail and food and beverage sectors were also reaping the benefits from the large school holiday crowd.

Leong said there had also been a rise over the past six months of Singaporean tourists to these theme parks, the Johor Premium Outlets in Kulaijaya and other shopping complexes in the city. “Because of this, more food outlets are mushrooming,” he said, advising traders against profiteering because there had been a hike in food prices at hawker centres.

Leong said there were now more hotels opening but, he lamented, the council continued to receive complaints regarding the “old issues” of taxi drivers not using meters and slow checkpoint clearance.

By YEE XIANG YUN xiangyun@thestar.com.my

Copyright © 1995-2012 Star Publications (M) Bhd

Malaysia... “the best kept secret in medical tourism”.

Date: 4 December 2012

Malaysia... “the best kept secret in medical tourism”.

The first Malaysia International Healthcare Travel Expo and Conference (MIHTE 2012) in Kuala Lumpur marked an important point in the development of Malaysia’s medical tourism industry, led by the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC). MIHTE attracted more than 1,300 delegates from  34 countries and was supported by  84 local and international exhibitors.

As the local healthcare systems develop, the Asian medical travel sector has enjoyed a period of growth in a difficult global healthcare market that has yet to recover from the financial crisis of 2008. Malaysia came relatively late to the medical tourism game, riding on the coat tails of Korea, Singapore and Thailand.

As one conference attendee described the country, it has been “the best kept secret in medical tourism”. But it is very clear that the work of MHTC, led by Dr Mary Wong,  and the Association of Private Hospitals in Malaysia (APHM), led by Dr Jacob Thomas, is paying dividends. Malaysia has climbed into the top five of medical tourism destinations worldwide (IMTJ Market  Analysis).

Copyright © 2005 - 2012 Intuition Communication Ltd.

UPM could be country's major tourism destination: Yen Yen.

Date: 4 December 2012

UPM could be country's major tourism destination: Yen Yen.

SERDANG: Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) is set to become a major tourist destination with the introduction of agro and eco-tourism products readily available at the university. Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said a special committee would be set up to develop the plan, direction and strategy towards realising the mission.

"This is not a fairs-like programme but we want tourists to come here (UPM) daily, throughout the year, to see and learn about the variety of plants, trees, fruits and many other unique and interesting attractions, including the art and culture programmes offered in this university.

"We were informed there are 140 clones of durian in this university. This could also be one of the attraction for both local and international tourists.  So, the ministry will have a pilot project with UPM to get their views and to learn of the location and attractive tourism products," she added. She said, in ensuring the success of the mission, UPM needed to produce tourist guides of calibre among its students to contribute to their income and career.

Dr Ng said this at a media conference after the launch of the Electricity Saving Awareness campaign and the handing out of 1Malaysia student discount cards here today.

Statistics have shown that UPM has more than 1,200 hectares of land and more than 100,000 collections of reserved tropical natural materials, including herbarium substances, zilarium, zoology, arthropod, seedlings and agricultural artifacts, as well as living collections, including valuable plants, microbes, livestock animals and freshwater fish.

Dr Ng said, besides offering consultation and training to enable UPM to be listed in the Malaysian tourist map, the ministry was also willing to execute promotions to introduce the university's tourism products locally and abroad.

On another note, she said, Malaysia would continue to be a premier tourist destination in the region with the recognition of Global Peace Index (GPI) 2011, as the most peaceful country in Southeast Asia, and fourth in the Asia-Pacific after New Zealand, South Korea and Japan.

"CNN has listed Kuala Lumpur as the fourth best shopping destination in the world after New York, London and Tokyo, and the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has ranked Malaysia the ninth most travelled tourist destination in the world for three consecutive years, since 2009."

However, Dr Ng said there were shortcomings which must be overcome, such as toilet and restaurant cleanliness and public taxi services, which were often raised by tourists. – Bernama

Copyright © 2012 Sun Media Corporation Sdn. Bhd.

A perfect swing for Malaysian tourism.

Date: 3 December 2012

A perfect swing for Malaysian tourism.

KUALA LUMPUR: Hosting Asia's first Kids Golf World Championship (KGWC) 2012 should augur well for the future of Malaysian golf tourism. KGWC event director Sukumaran Balakrishnan said Malaysia has a bright future ahead as it has some of the finest courses in Asia.

"Asia and in particular Malaysian golf destinations are competing for the affluent, high-value tourists who generate significantly above-average per capita revenues for the destinations they frequent," he said in an email interview.

Global golf tourism has been valued at US$20 billion (RM60 billion) with over 50 million golf tourists travelling around the world to play on some of the estimated 32,000 courses worldwide, he noted.

KGWC is part of the US Kids Golf Foundation, one of the largest golf foundations in the US hosting a whole calendar of events throughout the year. "All of these tournaments are held in the US except one which is held in Europe and this will be the first time they are holding KGWC in Asia," said Sukumaran.

He said that US KGWC has been traditionally played at Pinehurst Golf Club and over 18,000 kids have tried to qualify for the 1,200 spots. "I don't think there is a larger junior golf tournament in the world," Sukumaran said, adding that there is a rising number of participants from Asia and last year 40 per cent of them were Asians.

"This is a very large tournament. We have 373 junior golfers registered, aged five to 18 to participate in 18 different categories. The tournament will be played at Saujana Golf & Resort Club and Glenmarie Golf and Resort Club," he said.

Sukumaran pointed out that Malaysia is one of the best golfing destinations in the world with some fantastic golf courses, hotels, attractions and hospitality.  "We were able to offer all participants and their family and friends two fantastic golf courses and some great value accommodation during their visit," he said.

Sukumaran said the event helps boost Malaysia's image enormously and will position the country as one of the world's best travel destinations. "For example, as part of the Economic Transformation Programme, MyCEB (Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau) is making sure that Malaysia is promoted as the global centre stage for international events," he said.

Malaysia won the bid to host KGWC from countries such as Japan, China and South Korea. "We succeeded because of the support of RSH (the Malaysian franchise holder) and MyCEB who are extremely keen to help develop the game of the golf in the region," Sukumaran said.

By Roziana Hamsawi

Copyright © The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

Yen Yen suggests KTMB set up tourism committee.

Date: 3rd December 2012

Yen Yen suggests KTMB set up tourism committee.

JOHOR BARU: Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen proposed that Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB) set up a tourism committee to promote interesting places and food, and open up the rural market. Such a committee could enable KTMB to come up with its own tourism products, in line with its role as a major public transport provider, she said.

"KTMB has a very big role but it needs a tourism committee which is in line with the business aspect of the sector," she said. She added that KTMB could upgrade its coaches, infrastructure at stations and introduce interesting rural destinations.

Speaking to reporters after opening the Fabulous Food 1Malaysia Street Food Festival in Taman Johor Jaya Friday night, she said, adding that the Ministry was prepared to assist KTMB in terms of promotion.

The festival saw 240 stalls stretched along Jalan Dedap 25, offering a great variety of food from the local multi-racial communities.

The three-day festival, is open from 12 noon to 11 pm daily and ends Sunday. - Bernama

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TAR confident of attracting more visitors to its theme park.

Date: 1st December 2012

TAR confident of attracting more visitors to its theme park. 

NUSAJAYA: Theme Attractions and Resorts Sdn Bhd (TAR) has no plans to issue annual passes to attract visitors to its Puteri Harbour Family Theme Park here. Managing director and chief executive officer Tunku Datuk Ahmad Burhanuddin said the current ticket selling system at the newly opened park worked well for the company.

“We are looking at ways on how to attract more visitors to our park from time to time by working closely with our business associates,’ he said.  Tunku Ahmad said this at the signing of strategic partnerships with eight partners worth RM10mil for the duration of three to five years.

The partners are ASTRO, RHB Bank, Coca-Cola, Canon, Panasonic, Dell, Mini Melts and KPJ Healthcare Bhd. Through these collaborations, the company is well positioned to further enhance visitor’s experience at the theme park.

“Since opening its doors on October 26, we have received 35,000 visitors of which 30% are from foreign countries,’’ he said.  Tunku Ahmad said with continuous promotions and collaborations with travel agents and tour companies, it was confident that the theme park would be able to attract more visitors.

He said with the opening of the Legoland Theme Park Malaysia and the Puteri Harbour Family Indoor Theme, Malaysians from outside Johor also now have good reason to visit the state. Tunku Ahmad said feedback from hotel operators in and around Johor Baru showed that they recorded good room occupancy rates since the opening of the two new theme parks in September and October.

“We also want to work together with other stakeholders to promote Iskandar Malaysia as a tourist destination in the region,’’ he said. Tunku Ahmad said tour agents and hotels could tailor packages to cater for tourists to visit not only the two theme parks but also other tourist attractions in Johor.

Separately, he said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak would be opening the Puteri Harbour Family Theme Park on Dec 6. TAR is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Khazanah Nasional Bhd incorporated in 2009 to develop and operate themed attractions and resorts to enhance the leisure and tourism industry in Malaysia.

By ZAZALI MUSA zaza@thestar.com.my 

Copyright © 1995-2012 Star Publications (M) Bhd

KL fourth best shopping city.

Date: 27 November, 2012

KL fourth best shopping city.

SURVEY: It offers high quality experience with affordable prices

KUALA LUMPUR: MALAYSIA bagged  another global award when its capital was ranked the  fourth best shopping city in the world in a survey by CNN Travel. The survey saw Kuala Lumpur beat Paris, Hong Kong and Dubai. The top three cities are New York, Tokyo and London

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ng Yen Yen said: "We have arrived at the point where we are on a par with major cities and we will continue to pursue this effort by moving up the ladder." She said this at a press conference on the 1Malaysia Year-End Sale, here, yesterday.

The survey was based on four categories: ease of getting around, value, variety and experience. It was measured on a scale from one to 10. Kuala Lumpur scored 30 points and was the only city that obtained a full 10 points under the value category. It provided a high quality shopping experience at affordable prices, said CNN Travel.

Dr Ng said: "Our next step is to upgrade our infrastructure and transport services to attract high-end tourists. We should also look at producing more Malaysian theatre events similar to the ones in New York and London."

She acknowledged that the private sector played a crucial role in making KL an important shopping destination. The ministry is looking at tweaking certain areas such as public transport and bettering the tourism experience. "Based on the survey, we acquired six points for experience and getting around with ease. We're going to work hard to improve that figure and I believe we are on the right track."

Earlier this month, the city was crowned the second best shopping destination in Asia-Pacific by Globe Shopper Index, a survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit based in Switzerland.

By SUKHBIR CHEEMA | news@nst.com.my 

Copyright © The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

Malaysia's first turtle gallery.

Date: 27 November, 2012

Malaysia's first turtle gallery.

PORT DICKSON: Negeri Sembilan will soon have a colossal turtle statue to greet visitors, which will give a major boost to the tourism industry in the country. Unlike the renowned eagle statue in Langkawi, the turtle structure would not only serve as a monument but also as a gallery that visitors could tour.

State executive councillor in charge of culture, arts, heritage and Malay customs, Datuk Mohammad Radzi Kail, said the Turtle Sculpture Gallery project was still on the drawing board and would be presented to the Tourism Ministry next month.

He said the RM10 million gallery, a collaboration between Port Dickson Municipal Council and Glory Beach Resort, would be the first of its kind in the world once completed. "There is no such gallery in the world. It is hoped that it would be a state landmark."

Radzi said the gallery was part of continuing efforts by the Glory Beach Resort to help protect and conserve endangered turtles. For the past three years, the hotel has been conducting a turtle rehabilitation programme, in which locals and visitors can curb the extinction of turtles by rescuing its eggs from poachers and placing them in a hatchery.

"The gallery would be built overlooking the beach of Tanjung Gemuk here, near the hatchery," said Radzi. "It is aimed at educating the public on the importance of saving the species from the threat of extinction while encouraging them to participate in the cause." He added that visitors could take part in releasing hatchlings into the sea.

The Glory Beach Resort hatchery, set up in June 2010, has recorded a 74 per cent success rate in its hatching programme and thus far has released 3,200 hawksbill turtles into the sea. The programme was conceived after the Rantau Abang Turtle and Marine Ecosystem Centre discovered turtle tracks along the beaches here.

Radzi said once the gallery was completed, it would be able to attract people from all over the world to Port Dickson to study the species of turtles found here, such as leather back, green, hawksbill and Olive Ridley. Glory Beach Resort general manager Isaac Mohan Raj said the gallery would feature a aquarium, where the four species of turtles would be displayed for public viewing. "The aquarium will be connected to a pond where the turtles could lay eggs." There would also be an auditorium providing information and posters on turtles, in addition to a restaurant overlooking the sea, he added.

By MAIZATUL RANAI | maizatulranai@nst.com.my 

Copyright © The New Straits Times Press (Malaysia) Berhad

Sarawak records 2.95 mil visitor arrivals this year.

Date: 27 November, 2012

Sarawak records 2.95 mil visitor arrivals this year.

KUCHING (Nov 27, 2012): Sarawak recorded 2,944,821 visitor arrivals between January and September this year, an increase of 8.1 per cent compared to the 2,723,964 arrivals for the same period last year, State Tourism Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said today.

He said that of the total number of arrivals so far this year, 1,918,497 were international visitors and 1,026,324, from peninsular Malaysia and Sabah.

"There were notable increase in the arrivals from Singapore, China, Australia and the United Kingdom," he said when winding up debate pertaining to his ministry at the State Legislative Assembly sitting, here.

Abang Johari said culture, adventure and nature (CAN) tourism products offered in Sarawak continued to be the main attractions, with 206,186 visitors being recorded until June this year.

"The Semenggoh Wildlife Centre recorded the highest number of visitor arrivals with 46,370 followed by the Bako National Park with 21,052 and the Niah National Park with 11,862," he added. – Bernama

Copyright © 2012 Sun Media Corporation Sdn. Bhd.

'Eye On Malaysia' Wheel In Pulau Melaka To Operate In April.

Date: 26 November, 2012

'Eye On Malaysia' Wheel In Pulau Melaka To Operate In April.

MELAKA, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- The 101-metre high "Eye on Malaysia" Ferris wheel under construction in Pulau Melaka is expected to start operating in April next year, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rustam said today.

Construction of the 13th highest Ferris wheel in the world, being built at a cost of RM40 million, had progressed to 15 per cent, involving installation of piles, he said. "The installation of the wheel structure will begin in February," he said during a visit to the project site.

Mohd Ali said the made-in-China Ferris wheel, with 54 gondolas, could assist in the development of Pulau Melaka, which also has a wildlife theatre, as a major tourist attraction of the world. Besides the Ferris wheel, local company The Eye Sdn Bhd was also developing a water and light theme park as well as a 28-storey hotel, he said.

Mohd Ali invited more tourism industry players to invest in the state, particularly in the development of large-scale theme parks.

Copyrights@BERNAMA

KL & Putrajaya - Premium Half Day Tour.

Date: 24 November, 2012

KL & Putrajaya - Premium Half Day Tour.

Due to many request about Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya at our email, we now have the above tours available on daily basis. It is for half a day and will probably takes about 4 to 5 hours depending on the road traffic and weather conditions. It starts from 10.00am until about 2 to 3.00pm. The package is valid from Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya areas and we shall do pick-up from your hotel or at selected stops that we have engaged with.

The tour is using a premium vehicle which comforts your journey together with a driver that will also guide you to the places of interest that we have selected in the package inclusion. The package also include a meal plus mineral water for your journey convenience. The package meant for four (4) persons and suitable for friends and family.

Our advise is to do booking with us at least seven (7) days in advanced to secure your Premium Half Day Tour as we have limited vehicle and has been in demand especially during the school holidays. 

In addition, we also do the above for groups with different arrangement on the transfers using van or coaches at a different rate. We believe that the itinerary is suitable for the visit and with limitation of time for you to explore and visit more destination with activity at Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. We know that many travelers especially international tourists spend about less than a week at Peninsular Malaysia before going to other destination surrounding ASEAN. Therefore, it is best that tourists are able to do a tour to Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya; and experience the differences between this two cities. We strongly advise that you have a camera with you to take on photos that will entice you to come back!

We are also able to provide you with itineraries and travelling advise for your trip to Malaysia. We offer many more travel and hospitality services and we do it through our license travel and tour company under Ministry of Tourism, Malaysia.   

Finally, do email us for further information on the above packages at tourismservicesmalaysia@gmail.com and we shall reply to your request.

1Malaysia year-end sale returns with promotions and activities.

Date: 22 November, 2012

1Malaysia year-end sale returns with promotions and activities.

MALAYSIA- The Minister of Tourism, YB Dato’ Sri Dr. Ng Yen Yen has launched the 1Malaysia Year-End Sale (1MYES). The 1MYES, which will be held until 01 January 2013, aims to encourage shoppers from all over the world to come to Malaysia to celebrate the last two months of the year with a fabulous shopping experience.

One of three major shopping seasons in the country, 1MYES is the end-of-year shopping event that ends the year in style. The 1Malaysia GP Sale coincides with the Formula One Grand Prix in KL in March and the 1Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival is held during the summer holidays.

Shopping is a lucrative sector of Malaysia’s tourism industry. It holds the second biggest share of tourist expenditure after accommodation. Last year, tourists spent RM17.5 billion on shopping which constituted 30% of the total receipts of RM58.3 billion. It recorded a growth of 8 percent against the figure in 2010 (RM16.2 billion). In 2000, when the first Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival was organised, shopping only constituted 23.1% of total tourist expenditures.

Foreign tourists and locals alike have 55 days to take advantage of the discounts and special offers put together by various shopping malls nationwide. The shopping malls will host numerous events to make Malaysia the place to go for shopping, fashion and food throughout November and December.

In Kuala Lumpur, the Sungei Wang Plaza shopping mall will offer its visitors a chance to win a pair of Yoga Lin Concert tickets while the Kenanga Wholesale City will organise a treasure hunt to challenge its shoppers. The Mines shopping mall in Seri Kembangan, Selangor will run a competition to win a 2 day, 1 night stay for four at the Golden Palm Villa in Sepang, a gold set from Poh Kong and other prizes. In Penang, a Garfield and Friends Meet & Greet will take place at the Queensbay Mall while the 1st Avenue mall invites shoppers to participate in a kolam design competition to get into the spirit of Deepavali. The East Coast Mall in Kuantan, Pahang has workshops for Christmas clay doll painting, Christmas card decoration, Christmas origami and New Year card design for its visitors. The Boulevard shopping mall and the Imperial mall in Sarawak will entice its visitors with the “Buy & Fly!” Lucky Draw Contest which offers return tickets to Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and South Korea.

MasterCard cardholders will get the opportunity to walk away with instant redemptions and exciting competition prizes at participating malls in Malaysia.

The KL Fashion Weekend will be held on 21 and 22 November 2012 at the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur. The two-day fashion showcase will present fashion shows featuring new trends for hair, make-up and fashion from the Autumn-Winter 2012/2013 collection. The participating departmental stores include Debenhams and Metrojaya.

Kuala Lumpur has been ranked the second best shopping destination in Asia Pacific – as reported by the latest Global Shopper Index, cementing its position as a shopping paradise. The report stated that Kuala Lumpur’s specific strength is its ability to combine low prices with a good range of products in a large number of stores. It also took note of the Government's mammoth investments in developing KLCC and Bukit Bintang as a “premier shopping precinct in Malaysia”. Twenty five cities in the region were assessed under five categories in the Globe Shopper Index which was created by the Economist Intelligence Unit, commissioned by Switzerland-based shopping tourism company Global Blue.

Positioning Malaysia as a duty-free shopping destination for tourist goods is one of the three Entry Point Projects undertaken to increase shopping receipts to 35 percent by 2020, under the Malaysia Tourism Transformation Plan.

Imported goods that are not subject to custom duty at all are readily available all over the country and not limited to duty-free zones. Aside from 5 categories of products – cars, glassware, cigarettes, alcohol and chocolates - all other products are tax exempted in Malaysia. Shoppers can look forward to more varieties of imported goods at better prices. This move is part of the Malaysian Government’s efforts to enhance the country’s position as a destination for duty-free shopping. Through this effort, Malaysia hopes to attract a wider range of principal brands to invest in the country. It also facilitates lower and more competitive pricing of imported merchandise, giving Malaysian retailers a competitive edge over retailers in other countries.

By: Vicky Karantzavelou

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